Gary S. Becker

Gary S. Becker was an influential American economist and sociologist known for applying economic principles to social issues like education, family dynamics, and crime. He viewed choices in areas traditionally beyond economics, such as marriage and parenting, as rational decisions made to maximize personal utility. Becker's work emphasized the importance of human capital—the idea that investments in education and skills enhance individual productivity and economic outcomes. His innovative approach earned him the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1992, highlighting the intersection of economics with everyday human behavior and social policies.